Chocolate-Dipped Fruit Cones with Creamy Fruit Dip

Servings: Makes about 16 cones

Prep Time: 45 minutes

Chill Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour

Ingredients

For the Chocolate-Dipped Waffle Cones:

• 16 waffle cones

• 12 oz semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips (or chocolate melting wafers)

• 1 tbsp coconut oil or vegetable shortening (optional, for smoother melting)

• Parchment paper or a cooling rack

Fresh Fruit (suggested, adjust to taste):

• 1 lb strawberries (hulled, halved if large)

• 1 cup blueberries

• 1 cup red grapes

• 1 cup green grapes

• 1 cup pineapple chunks

• 1 cup kiwi slices (optional)

• 1 cup mango chunks (optional)

• 1 cup chocolate-dipped strawberries (optional, for extra flair)

For the Creamy Fruit Dip:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup marshmallow fluff

• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream (or whipped topping like Cool Whip)

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• Zest of 1 orange or lemon (optional for brightness)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cones

1. Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 30-second increments, stirring between each until smooth. Stir in coconut oil if using.

2. Dip the Cones: Dip the rims of the waffle cones into the melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off. Optionally, roll in crushed nuts, sprinkles, or shredded coconut.

3. Cool and Set: Place cones on parchment paper or upright in a cone holder until chocolate sets (about 15 minutes in the fridge speeds this up).

2. Make the Creamy Dip

1. In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.

2. Add marshmallow fluff and vanilla extract; mix until combined.

3. Fold in whipped cream or whipped topping until light and fluffy.

4. Add citrus zest if using.

5. Chill until ready to serve.

3. Prep the Fruit

1. Wash and dry all fruit thoroughly.

2. Cut strawberries, pineapple, mango, and kiwi into bite-sized pieces.

3. Keep grapes whole or halved if large.

4. Assemble the Fruit Cones

1. Fill each cooled, chocolate-dipped cone with a mix of fruits. Try to layer colors and textures for visual appeal.

2. For a fancy touch, alternate fruit types and top each cone with a small chocolate-dipped strawberry or a sprig of mint.

5. Arrange the Display

1. Place a bowl of the creamy dip in the center of a large circular tray or platter.

2. Surround the bowl with the filled cones, fanning them out in a circle.

3. Fill any gaps with loose strawberries, grapes, or chocolate-dipped fruit.

✨ Tips & Variations

• Cone Holder Hack: Use a Bundt cake pan upside down or a styrofoam ring as a cone holder for easier arranging.

• Flavor Twist: Add cinnamon or nutmeg to the chocolate or a drizzle of honey to the dip.

• Vegan Version: Use vegan waffle cones, dark chocolate, and a plant-based whipped topping with dairy-free cream cheese.

Serving Ideas

• Brunch table centerpiece

• Baby shower or bridal shower

• Dessert buffet at parties

• Summer BBQs and picnics